Page 20 of One Hundred Humbugs

Houdini, for his part, merely bleated, seeming entirely unperturbed by the threat or his recent misadventures.

Ruby laughed at the pair of them. “I don’t know, Becket. Looks to me like he’s proud of himself. Might even be planning his next great escape.”

Becket groaned. “Don’t give him any ideas. Next thing you know, he’ll be leaving ransom notes made of chewed-up garland.”

Ruby laughed, her eyes crinkling with amusement. Becket could imagine how ridiculous he must look, covered in snow and tinsel, clutching a disgruntled goat.

As they stood up, brushing off snow and bits of decoration, Sheriff Cooper approached, shaking his head.

“Well, folks,” he said, “I’d say this qualifies as disturbing the peace, but I’m not sure our town bylaws cover renegade goats.”

Ruby’s face fell, the humor of the moment evaporating. “I’m so sorry, Sheriff. This is all my fault. I’ll pay for any damages and?—”

Aiden held up a hand to cut her off, a hint of amusement in his voice. “Relax. No harm done. Haven’t seen this many people out and about since the big Christmas tree burned down last year.”

As if to prove his point, townspeople continued to emerge from their homes and shops, drawn by the excitement. Soon, a small crowd had gathered, all chattering and laughing about Houdini’s adventures.

Ruby looked around in amazement. Instead of the anger and resentment she’d feared, she was met with friendly smiles and easy laughter.

Becket’s hand settled on her shoulder, and she turned to find him smiling, though a hint of surprise lingered in his eyes.

“Well, I’ll be damned,” he said. “I thought for sure Houdini would get us both into trouble.”

“I know,” Ruby said, her guilt weighing on her. “But look at all this damage,” she added, gesturing to the chewed decorations and toppled displays. “I have to make this right.”

Becket squeezed her shoulder. “We’llfigure it out. I’m as surprised as you are but looks like they’re not holding a grudge. Don’t worry.”

“I’ll replace everything,” she announced, her voice carrying over the chatter of the crowd. “All the decorations, the displays, everything. I promise.”

The townspeople turned to look at her, surprise evident on their faces.

“Oh, honey,” Maisey said, her voice gentle. “You don’t have to do that. It’s just a bit of tinsel and cardboard.”

“But I want to,” Ruby insisted. “It’s the least I can do after all this trouble.”

Becket watched her, a mix of admiration and concern deep in his eyes. He knew she didn’t have the means to follow through on her promise, but he couldn’t help admiring her determination to make things right.

As the crowd dispersed, Ruby turned to Becket, her eyes blazing with determination and frustration. “How could you let this happen?” she demanded. “I thought you had these goats under control!”

Becket’s eyebrows shot up. “Let this happen? Ruby, goats aren’t known for their obedience. Houdini’s always been a handful.”

“Then maybe you shouldn’t have brought him!” she shot back. “Do you have any idea how this makes me look? I’m trying to fit in here, and now I’m the girl who let a destructive goat loose in town!”

Becket’s face hardened. “I didn’t plan for this, you know. And may I remind you, you’re the one who agreed to let me bring the goats in the first place.”

They glared at each other, the tension palpable. Then, as quickly as it had flared up, the anger drained away, leaving them both looking tired and a bit sheepish.

“I’m sorry,” Ruby said. “I know it’s not your fault. I’m just ... I’m overwhelmed.”

Becket’s expression softened. “I know. I’m sorry too. I should have been more careful with Houdini. We’ll figure this out, okay?”

Ruby nodded, offering him a small smile. “Okay.”

As they walked back toward Ruby’s house, Houdini securely leashed this time, Ruby’s mind was clearly working on a plan. She’d go through Uncle Peter’s belongings, see if there was anything valuable that she could sell to fund the replacement decorations. It was a long shot, but it was all she had.

“You know,” Becket said as they approached the house, “I think you might have underestimated this town. They seem to like you, goat chaos and all.”

Ruby paused, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. “Yeah, I’m starting to think I might have underestimated a lot of things about Aspen Cove.”

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